William Paterson University Career Development Center

What you take from the earth, you must give back. Thats natures way - Chris dLacey

CAREERS IN.
Earth Science focuses on furthering the understanding of all physical aspects of the Earth. The field of Earth science encompasses various areas including geology, geochemistry, geophysics, oceanography, and climatology. The study of
these areas are essential to building an understanding of how the Earth system works, how it has evolved, and what
changes are constantly taking place. These studies are also essential for understanding how and where to find raw
materials to provide growing resources to growing markets and societies, as well as being able to predict natural forces
such as weather, ocean behaviors, and climate changes. Those working in Earth science can use their knowledge to explore the impact of human activities on the planet and develop ways to protect it.
The 41 credit Bachelor of Science in Earth Science program at William Paterson University is housed in the College of
Science and Health. The credits are distributed in three areas as follows: Required Courses, Co-requisites in Astronomy
and Math, and Earth Science Electives. Required courses include Geology, Oceanography, Meteorology, and Mineralogy & Petrology.
WPUNJ Earth Science: http://www.wpunj.edu/cosh/depar tments/envir onmental-science/
WPUNJ Admissions:
http://www.wpunj.edu/admissions/undergraduate/academic-programs/programs_detail.dot?id=125496
Interests & Skills:
*Computer modeling skills
*Good communication skills, both written and oral
*Being able to work both in a team and independently
*Ability to analyze and interpret data

*Strong interpersonal skills

*Critical thinking skills
*Attention to detail
*Physical stamina for fieldwork

Work Environment:
People working within the field of Earth Science are located in a variety of industries and environments. A majority of
entry-level positions involve fieldwork, while those with more experience tend to spend more time in an office or laboratory setting. Fieldwork typically occurs in various environmental settings, including both warm and cold climates and all
kinds of weather. Most work usually requires contact with water, working with tools, and carrying equipment. Work as a
researcher or consultant is less physically demanding but may include demands of finding funding.
Possible job titles:
*Atmospheric Scientist
*Environmental Geologist
*Geologist
*Sedimentologist
*Stratigrapher
*Quaternity Geologist
*Petrologist
*Hydrologist
*Mineralogist
*Paleontologist
*Earth Scientist
*Cartographer
*Environmental Services Consultant
*Pollution Prevention Manager
*Water Locator/Well Driller
*Climate Change Analyst
*Aquaculture Manager
*Petroleum Scientist
*Land Developer

*Economic Geologist
*Geochemist
*Geomorphologist
*Seismologist
*Structural Geologist
*Chemist
*Glacial Geologist
*Maine Geologist
*Oceanographer
*Petroleum Geologist
*Planetary Geologist
*Wetlands Biologist
*Field Sampling Specialist
*Soils Design Engineer
*Erosion/Sediment Control Inspector
*Soil Scientist
*Environmental Compliance Inspector
*Coastal Zone Manager
*Resource Analyst

*Engineering Geologist
*Geochronologist
*Geophysicist
*Soil Scientist
*Volcanologist
*Lab Technician
*Hydrogeologist
*Meteorologist
*Paleocologist
*Petrophysicist
*Seismic Interpreter
*Environmental Consultant
*Wildlife Biologist
*Science Educator
*Surveyor
*Geographer
*Glaciologist
*Marine Biologist
*Geological Engineer

Where William Paterson University Alumni Work:

Environmental Specialist
Earth Science Teacher
Specialist Agent
Environmental Specialist
Quality Control Manager
Genetics Technician III
Ecologist
SupervisorHealth Safety & Environment
Environmental Consultant
Environmental Education Consultant
Environmental Health Specialist
Parts Coordinator
Assistant Director

Triumvirate
Wallington Board of Education
United States Fish & Wildlife Service
Bergen County Utilities Authority
Marvell
Department of Fish & Wildlife Washington
Ebasco Environmental
Allied Signal Foundation Inc.
Atlantic Environmental Inc.
Greater Newark Conservancy
Passaic County Health Department
Whirlpool, Inc.
Stonehill Recreation Corporation

Enhance Your Qualifications:

Successful students tend to seek out opportunities to enhance their qualifications through
a variety of means. Within Earth Science, some suggestions may include joining or becoming a leader in a career-related campus organization; joining a national professional
Earth Science association; gaining practical experience through an internship/fieldwork/
job shadowing/volunteering; and attending networking functions. Additionally, students
can increase their opportunities by learning computer skills, interning or getting a parttime job in the field to gain experience, and looking into the possibility of graduate
school or teacher certification.

Related Web Sites:

Geological Society of America
America Meteorological Society
Association for the Sciences of Limnology & Oceanography
Environmental Information
National Association of Environmental Professionals
Environmental Protection Agency
Ecological Association of America
American Water Works Association
Occupational Outlook Handbook
Industry Information
Job Search and Salary information
O*Net Online
Careers in Geosciences

http://www.geosociety.org/
https://www.ametsoc.org/
http://www.aslo.org/
www.envirolink.org
www.naep.org
www.epa.org
www.esa.org
www.awwa.org
www.bls.gov/oco/
www.vault.com
www.rileyguide.com
online.onetcenter.org
www.earthscienceworld.org

Other sources:
Please drop by the Career Development and Advisement Center to learn more about careers in environmental
science. The career library carries career-specific books and counselors are available to answer any further
questions you may have. Visiting the Environmental Science Department on campus may also prove valuable
in addressing questions.
Compliments of:
The Career Development Center
http://www.wpunj.edu/career-development

973-720-3291
UPDATED 4.14.2014